Numbers 18 offers poetic closure to the previous chapters that featured Korah’s noxious
rebellion against Aaron, the high priest. With the rebel’s attempted coup quelled, Aaron
emerged from the trying ordeal with God’s confirmation, and favors. We shall elaborate.
“All holy portions that the Children of Israel apportion to God, I give to
you and your sons with you for an eternal statute.”
Our chapter’s verses sanction the priest’s enjoyment of more divine gifts, but in broad strokes.
“All holy portions that the Children of Israel apportion to God, I give to you and your sons…” In
a gesture that can only be described as altruistic, to the extent the Maker’s gestures may be
described in human terms, He grants that which belongs to Him to His priests.
Moreover, the Almighty etches and endorses the agreement with the priests as a permanent
one. “It is a fully preserved covenant before God, [a promise] to you and to your seed with
you.” Just as something is preserved by salting it, so too is this matter resolutely resolved, a
covenant of salt; it never stales.
Aaron learned more about the divine arrangement. “And God said to Aaron: In their land, you
shall not take possession.” The placement and context of the verse cannot be clearer. These
priestly presents are extended to Aharon and his descendants in lieu of ownership of any parts
of the Holy Land. “And a portion you shall not have in their midst.” This includes territory
gained through war spoils or occupation of enemy land.
Of course, there is a rationale to the ban on priests taking possession in Israel. The Creator
wanted the priests to focus their thoughts and not get sidetracked by mundane, farming
exigencies. “I am your portion and inheritance among the Children of Israel.” The priests’
livelihood is provided for. Theirs will be a quiet life subsisting on basic staples, courtesy of the
Maker. Worry will not be their lot, their energy freed to concentrate on serving their brethren
and on making sure that the Holy Temple service and rites run smoothly.
